PROFESSIONAL SUMMARY
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Certification
Timeline

CHLOE SCHAFFEL

Lincoln Park Zoo
Chicago,IL
1
Certification
5
years of professional experience

Environmental education professional with hands-on experience in public-facing interpretation. Passionate about connecting communities to mission-driven organizations through engaging, accurate, and accessible education and content.

Work History

Guest Engagement Fellow

4 Months
Lincoln Park Zoo | 04.2026 - Current
  • Delivered engaging interpretive programs, guided tours, and animal encounters to 600+ guests daily for diverse guests, enhancing their connection to wildlife.
  • Incorporated conservation action messages into programs, inspiring visitors to actively participate in conservation.
  • Fostered positive guest experiences by adapting presentations for diverse audiences, ensuring accurate messaging and engagement with conservation themes.
  • Analyzed visitor feedback to refine outreach strategies and improve overall experience at the zoo.

Intern

4 Months
Brandywine Zoo | 02.2025 - 06.2025
  • Collaboratively designed a commemorative 120th anniversary exhibit, leading content development and graphic design.
  • Conducted historical, scientific, and educational research to ensure accuracy of interpretive materials.
  • Served as a zoo docent, engaging guests using professional, conservation-centered language.
  • Learned animal husbandry principles through mentorship with zoo staff.
  • Supported educational programs, outreach initiatives, and special events.

Environmental Educator

10 Months
Fair Hill Nature Center | 08.2024 - 06.2025
  • Delivered environmental education programs for K–5 students and community groups, enhancing awareness of local ecosystems and sustainability practices.
  • Developed curriculum-aligned lesson plans incorporating state standards and diverse learning styles, facilitating mastery of key concepts among students.
  • Created visual materials and documentation for outreach and storytelling.
  • Designed visual materials and documentation for outreach and storytelling, effectively engaging community members in environmental initiatives.

Bartender

4 Months
Missoula Paddleheads | 05.2024 - 09.2024
  • Served 200+ guests per shift during high-traffic events while maintaining fast, friendly service.
  • Managed cash handling, ensuring accurate balances and efficient transactions.
  • Executed opening and closing duties, including bar setup, inventory management, and organization.

Front Desk Attendant

1 Year 5 Months
University of Delaware Recreation | 12.2022 - 05.2024
  • Provided exceptional customer service in fast-paced, public-facing environment.
  • Coordinated check-ins, payments, and inquiries, ensuring smooth operations and positive guest experiences.
  • Managed front desk operations, ensuring efficient check-in and check-out processes for guests.
  • Provided exceptional customer service, addressing inquiries and resolving issues promptly.
  • Maintained accurate records of facility usage and memberships to support operational efficiency.

Preschool Teacher's Aide

1 Year 8 Months
Growing Tree Preschool | 06.2021 - 02.2023
  • Facilitated early childhood learning and social-emotional growth through engaging activities.
  • Contributed to lesson planning and organized classroom materials to enhance learning environment.
  • Assisted lead teacher in developing and implementing lesson plans tailored to children's developmental needs.
  • Facilitated engaging activities that promoted social, emotional, and cognitive skills among preschoolers.
  • Supported classroom management by maintaining a positive learning environment and addressing behavioral issues.

Education

M.S. - Insect & Wildlife Environmental Education

University of Delaware | Newark, DE | 05-2025

B.S. - Wildlife Ecology & Conservation

University of Delaware | Newark, DE | 05-2024

Skills

Environmental Education
Public Speaking
Creative program development
Animal Husbandry
Interpretive techniques
Classroom Management
Customer Service
Wildlife Photography
Outgoing personality

Certification

Certified Interpretive Guide (CIG), National Association for Interpretation (NAI)

Timeline

Guest Engagement Fellow

Lincoln Park Zoo
04.2026 - CurrentRead More

Intern

Brandywine Zoo
02.2025 - 06.2025Read More

Environmental Educator

Fair Hill Nature Center
08.2024 - 06.2025Read More

Bartender

Missoula Paddleheads
05.2024 - 09.2024Read More

Front Desk Attendant

University of Delaware Recreation
12.2022 - 05.2024Read More

Preschool Teacher's Aide

Growing Tree Preschool
06.2021 - 02.2023Read More

University of Delaware

M.S. from Insect & Wildlife Environmental Education
Read More

University of Delaware

B.S. from Wildlife Ecology & Conservation
Read More
CHLOE SCHAFFEL